Duke's East Camp

Highlights

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Tsodilo Hills with ancient rock paintings
• Thrilling game drives and lion sightings in the Okavango Delta
• Mokoro canoe excursions for a peaceful Delta experience
• Scenic helicopter flights showcasing breathtaking aerial views
• Magical sunset moments over the Delta's horizon
• Engage with local communities and conservation initiatives
• Unfiltered african wilderness combined with luxury

Information

• Lodge type: Safari Lodge
• Location: Northern Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Lodge size: 4 Tented Suites
• Recommended stay: 3-7 nights

Discover Duke's East: A Private Safari Haven In The Okavango Delta

If you're looking for a safari experience that combines exclusive charm with an authentic under-canvas adventure in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Duke's East is an exceptional choice. As the sister camp to the renowned Duke's Camp, it offers the same distinctive Bousfield style and attention to detail, with the added benefit of being available as an exclusive-use camp for family and friends.

Set in unfiltered African wilderness, Duke's East Camp is a luxurious yet intimate retreat. The camp features four spacious tents nestled under the shade of ebony and leadwood trees. Each tent offers a serene sanctuary in a remote area of the northern Okavango Delta, perfectly immersed in nature and offering a rare chance to connect with one of the world's last true wildernesses.

With a team of seasoned safari experts, you'll explore this World Heritage Site in depth, guided by their unmatched knowledge of the Delta's flora, fauna, and vibrant ecosystem. Their expertise turns every moment into a special experience. Few places offer this level of personalized service while staying so connected to the landscape.

Whether gliding through the Delta by mokoro or watching the golden African sunset from camp, Duke's East Camp promises an unforgettable adventure. It's a remarkable way to explore the Okavango Delta, blending unmatched luxury with intimate access to the beauty of the African wilderness.

Rooms And Suites

Duke's East offers a safari experience like no other, with four spacious canvas safari suites perfectly placed to showcase stunning views of the Okavango Delta. Elevated on wooden decks and tucked among leadwood and ebony trees, these suites blend effortlessly into the wilderness.

Inspired by the timeless charm of Jack's Camp, the tents at Duke's East Camp capture a vintage safari aesthetic with exceptional attention to detail. Inside, you'll find plush fabrics, Persian rugs, and handcrafted four-poster beds that exude elegance. Mahogany sideboards adorned with African artefacts, layered kilims, polished wooden floors, and a butler tray with fresh coffee each morning create a perfect mix of old-world glamour, luxury, and reverence for nature.

Each tent includes a spacious en-suite bathroom with brass fittings, bespoke amenities, and an outdoor shower for a closer connection to nature. The private deck, complete with leather campaign chairs, offers peaceful moments and frequent wildlife sightings, from elephants to red lechwe, adding an element of thrill to your stay.

Key features of Duke's East Camp:

• Four luxurious safari tents: 1 double, 2 twin, and 1 family unit with a private plunge pool—all on elevated wooden platforms for enhanced views.
• En-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers for ultimate comfort and adventure.

Cuisine And Wine

Meals at Duke's East Camp are a true celebration, blending tradition and luxury in the heart of the African bush. Picture elegant crystal glasses and antique silverware gracing the table as three-course dinners pay homage to the camp's rich heritage of treating guests to exceptional food and wine. Adding a signature touch is the famed Bousfield hot chilli relish, a staple beside the flickering lanterns that light up this enchanting experience.

As the day winds down, gather around the firepit to watch the mopane wood smoke drift into the vast southern skies. It's a serene moment of reflection, filled with the promise of tomorrow's adventures—a perfect continuation of the timeless magic of Duke's East Camp.

Facilities

The main mess area at Duke's East Camp is a treasure, blending old-world glamour with charm. Pour yourself a drink from the well-stocked cabinet and relax in the cosy lounge. With intricately carved tables, antique rugs, and campaign furniture, every corner exudes understated elegance.

Dining here feels magical. Guests enjoy meals under sprawling ebony trees or in the communal dining tent, perfect for sharing stories of the day's adventures. Adding to the charm are cabinets of curiosities filled with Africana and collectables, a tribute to the Bousfield family's legacy of African exploration.

Highlights include:

• A serene swimming pool pavilion for relaxing under the African sun.
• The iconic dining tent with an adjoining lounge for stylish unwinding.
• Solar-powered 24-hour electricity for sustainable comfort.
• Wi-Fi at the pool area for staying connected in nature.
• Complimentary laundry services, with washing powder provided for undergarments in line with local customs.

Though modern conveniences like hairdryers might be absent, it's a small trade-off for the authenticity and tranquillity Duke's East Camp offers—a luxurious escape where thoughtful design meets Africa's wild beauty.

Activities

For decades, exceptional guiding has been the hallmark of Jack's Camp, and Duke's East Camp proudly continues this tradition. Expert guides combine deep knowledge of the Okavango Delta with the storytelling flair passed down by founder Ralph Bousfield, creating a thoughtfully crafted and unparalleled wilderness experience.

Located on a vast private concession far from public access, guests enjoy exclusive encounters with nature. Activities immerse you in the magic of the Delta with exceptional attention to detail:

• Game Drives: Explore a pristine private concession teeming with wildlife on morning, afternoon, and evening drives. Spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and iconic Delta species like the red lechwe and rare sitatunga antelope
• Mokoro Safaris: Glide through clear Delta channels in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), discovering the intricate flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem. Availability depends on annual floodwaters (generally unavailable from October to January)
• Fly-Camping Adventures: Between June and September, sleep under the stars on a remote lantern-lit island. This magical experience, with just a mozzie net and bedroll, is weather-dependent and at an additional cost
• Fishing: Cast a line for African pike, nembwe, and tilapia in the Delta's rich waters. This catch-and-release activity offers an exhilarating challenge, paused during the breeding season (January to February)
• Poolside Relaxation: Cool off in the serene pool while enjoying wildlife sightings from your lounger
• Birding Paradise: With over 350 bird species, the Delta is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Migratory species make summer exceptional, while year-round residents ensure spectacular sightings in any season
• Discover the Tsodilo Hills: A 30-minute helicopter ride takes you to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to over 4,500 ancient rock paintings dating back as far as 1300 AD. This half-day excursion (book in advance) is perfect for history lovers
• Scenic Helicopter Flights: Take to the skies for stunning views of the Okavango Delta (additional cost)
• Sunset Bliss: Watch the sun sink over the Delta, a moment of magic to reflect on the day's adventures
• Community and Conservation Visits: Visit nearby villages and engage with outreach initiatives and conservation efforts via helicopter (additional cost)

In Conclusion

Duke's East Camp offers a truly unparalleled safari experience, where the vibrant ecosystem of the Okavango Delta comes alive at every turn. Whether you're exploring ancient rock paintings, soaring above the breathtaking landscape, or quietly observing wildlife in their natural habitat, each moment is designed to captivate and inspire. The dedication to preserving the environment and engaging with the local community ensures that your adventure has a positive impact on this remarkable region.

The carefully curated activities and luxurious accommodations at Duke's combine to create an experience that is as enriching as it is comfortable. From the thrill of tracking wildlife to the serenity of a sunset over the Delta, the camp perfectly balances excitement with relaxation. Every detail, from the attentive staff to the authentic cultural encounters, reflects a commitment to providing an unforgettable stay.

At its core, Duke's is more than just a destination—it's a gateway to the soul of the Okavango Delta. It invites you to connect with nature, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Botswana, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet. For an adventure that resonates long after it's over, Duke's East Camp is the ultimate choice.